Top 10 Most Beloved K-Dramas Worldwide
K-dramas have gained worldwide popularity beyond South Korea, and their global appeal continues to grow in 2024. Streaming services such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime have made K-dramas a key part of their content lineup, captivating audiences with various genres and compelling narratives. This article introduces the top 10 most popular K-dramas of 2024 and analyzes their unique appeal.
1. Moving
Genre: Supernatural, Action, Drama
A Disney+ original, Moving tells the story of parents with supernatural abilities and their children who inherit their powers. Based on Kang Full’s webtoon of the same name, the series has captivated audiences worldwide with its deep storyline, spectacular action, and touching family bonds. Its solid plot and thrilling developments have garnered significant attention from international viewers.
2. The Glory – Season 2
Genre: Revenge, Drama
Starring Song Hye-kyo, The Glory follows a woman who was bullied in her school years and later meticulously plans revenge against her tormentors. With its intense storyline and powerful performances, Season 2 continues the protagonist's calculated vengeance, maintaining strong rankings on Netflix’s global charts and solidifying K-dramas’ influence worldwide.
3. Doona!
Genre: Romance, Drama
A Netflix original starring Suzy and Yang Se-jong, Doona! tells the love story between a former idol and an ordinary university student. With its emotional cinematography and realistic portrayal of romantic emotions, the drama gained massive popularity. Suzy’s acting transformation particularly drew attention from global audiences, making it a hit both in Korea and abroad.
4. Gyeongseong Creature
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Historical
Set in 1945 during Japan’s colonial rule of Korea, Gyeongseong Creature follows protagonists who battle monstrous beings. Starring Park Seo-joon and Han So-hee, the series features compelling performances and an intriguing plot that left a lasting impression on international viewers. The combination of thriller and historical elements received widespread acclaim.
5. King the Land
Genre: Romantic Comedy
With Lee Junho and Im Yoon-ah as leads, King the Land is a bright and entertaining rom-com set in the hospitality industry. Its charming romance and stylish cinematography have won the hearts of overseas fans, making it a favorite among lovers of the romantic comedy genre.
6. Revenant
Genre: Occult, Thriller
Starring Kim Tae-ri, Revenant is a Korean-style occult thriller that blurs the line between ghosts and humans. The drama uniquely blends traditional Korean beliefs with modern suspense, receiving high praise abroad. The gripping storyline and Kim Tae-ri’s immersive acting stood out as highlights.
7. The Interest of Love
Genre: Melodrama, Drama
Set in a bank, The Interest of Love explores workplace romance with an emotionally charged story and realistic depictions of relationships. Yoo Yeon-seok and Moon Ga-young’s nuanced performances resonated with audiences, making the drama particularly popular among international fans looking for heartfelt storytelling.
8. Business Proposal 2
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Following the global success of Business Proposal, its second season has once again captivated audiences. The lighthearted atmosphere, witty romance, and lovable characters have continued to charm viewers, expanding its international fan base even further.
9. Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Set in a world of ancient magic and soul-shifting, the Alchemy of Souls series became a beloved fantasy romance drama. The second season, Light and Shadow, deepened the narrative and showcased stunning cinematography, introducing international viewers to the unique charm of the fantasy genre.
10. Sweet Home 2
Genre: Thriller, Action, Horror
Netflix’s original drama Sweet Home returned with a second season, delivering even more intense action and suspenseful storytelling. The unique premise of human desires transforming into monsters, combined with high-quality CGI, left a strong impression on global audiences. With Season 3 confirmed, the series is establishing itself as a long-running hit.
Conclusion
In 2024, K-dramas continue to captivate global audiences with diverse genres and immersive storytelling. From supernatural action to romantic comedies, fantasy, and thrillers, K-dramas have secured their place on the international stage, further expanding their influence. The future of K-dramas remains promising, with even more innovative and compelling stories on the horizon.